Arch Trail a hidden gem

Jun. 30, 2010 12:02 PM

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This is easily one of my favorite hikes in Southern Utah and likely one of the best outside of the national and state parks. Itís not long, but the return trip can be a bit strenuous. Yet itís worth every drop of sweat.

The Arch Trail is located in the eastern portion of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve near Leeds. Head north on Main Street in Leeds until you leave town. Take a right at the brown sign pointing east toward the reserve. Follow the Babylon Road southeast for about three miles. It varies among dirt, gravel and sand, but it should be OK for most passenger vehicles unless the sand is deep or itís muddy. At mile 3 you will see a junction with another road heading left (east again) and the Sand Cove Trailhead just off the road.

You can begin your hike here or venture a little farther past the trailhead toward the Sand Cove primitive camping area. But unless you have a high-clearance vehicle with four-wheel drive you wonít make it very far. I parked about halfway between the trailhead and the campground and walked the rest of the way to the campground and the beginning of the Arch Trail, which is marked by a sign at the southern edge of the area surrounded by the wood fence.

The tracks of lizards and larger animals cover the sandy trail as you hike through red rock formations and plenty of vegetation. The winding trail, which includes some minor climbing, finally reaches an overlook with a magnificent view of the Virgin River. From there the trail leads down a steep hill covered in deep sand. Donít even bother trying to keep the sand out of your shoes; just empty them at the bottom. Near the bottom of the hill the trail passes under a small sandstone arch that gives its name to the trail and stands only about 10 feet high.

When I made the hike in late April the landscape was covered with a variety of wildflowers including desert marigolds and primrose, especially between the arch and the river. The trail continues on through a sandy landscape all the way to the river. Then itís time to turn around and head back. The sandy hill proves to be the toughest part as with every two feet forward you slide one foot back. Just pace yourself and take time to rest on your way up if necessary. Itís tough but itís worth it.